Archive for March, 2009
on March 31st, 2009
My latest journey took me to Moscow; & although I did, subconsciously, relive the negative feelings that everyone in the US felt about the country back in the late 70′s & 80′s (I am old to remember, although young to make it to any meaningful sense of it) I was elated for the opportunity to explore & soak in the culture – of both the people & the country as a whole.
rarely there’s a time when a particular location grabs my attention & makes me sit up & take notice. A subtle mixture of the past meeting the present; while displaying it in a way that captures both the thrill & the suspense of what is awaiting you around the each & every corner.
Moscow the capital & the largest city of the Russian Federation, is a city in which one comes face to face with all that is great & frustrating in Russia. The generous people of the city are as evident as the extreme tension of a city coming to terms with the un-assuredness of social change. More so in Moscow, then anywhere else in a country of 6.592 million square miles can one feel the Soviet of the past colliding with the capitalistic future.
My first encounter with Russia was the Metro – yes the Metro. I often enjoy public transportation, as it is a great way to truly look at a society in a whole; at there purest. I was on my way to Red Square, & I got a small taste of what I was in for by taking this mode of travel. Not only are the Metro stations clean; being from Boston I can certainly appreciate that, but elegant designs of lavish use of marble, mosaics & sculptures were at every stop. I asked another traveler who has been to Moscow a few times, & we filled me in that these stations were built during the rule of Stalin; & where to display the best of Russian architect. Metro stations in Moscow such as Mayakovskaya Station , the Novokusnetskaya Station , the Novoslobodskaya Station & the Kropotkinskaya Station are a must & are almost entirely clear of tourists.
Red Square is an enormous 400 by 150 meter & it does epitomize everything that Moscow is & once was. Established in the 15th Century under the rule of Ivan III, Trinity Square as it was originally called was later named ‘Krasnaya Ploschad. The word ‘Krasnaya’ originally meaning beautiful in old Russian became red in more modern times. Some common assumptions are that the ‘Red’ in Red Square refers to Communism blood spill.
On its one sides stand the Kremlin, GUM Department Stores (which is becoming more akin to a Macy’s), State Historical Museum & St. Basil’s Cathedral which stands in the spot where the Trinity Cathedral – for which the Square was once named after, stood. Here you will also find Lenin’s tomb here, a gleaming granite mausoleum to the revered founder of Socialism. A hasty side note, however, that when Lenin’s tomb is open, most of Red Square is blocked off.
Over the years, Red Square has acted like Moscow’s equivalent to Rome’s Forum – a meeting place for the people, called Muscovites, for celebrating religious festivals, public gatherings or Tsars’ addresses; & even watching executions – various political dissidents were publically butchered here by Ivan the Terrible & Peter the Great.
I didn’t need to pass up the opportunity to visit Lenin’s Mausoleum. Its not often where you get a chance to see such an influential historical figure in the flesh – of work some cynics do claim that the embalmed body is in fact a wax work.
If there was one architectural symbol of Russia, & there are plenty of, it would have to be St. Basil’s Cathedral. The domes, cupolas, arches, towers & spires inspire everyone that sees it. A magnificent mix of Western & Eastern architecture, ‘The Cathedral of St. Basil the Blessed’ is the most recognizable structure in Russia.
Taking up the entire East side of Red Square is where you can do most if not all of your shopping. Looking more like a palace then a shopping centre, GUM (pronounced goom) is the largest in Russia. I’m not much of a shopper, but as you enter into this complex, you are hit with its elegantly-decorated interior. A fountain is centrally located while two parallel arcades invite you to explore some designer shopping – & the glass ceiling is also an attention grabber.
The State Historical Museum was next. Constructed in the late 19th century, with its red brick walls & ornate cornices, the State Historical Museum is a great addition to Moscow’s Red Square. All manner of treasures lie awaiting for that prospective explorer. You are led back through Russian history, with artifacts dating back to its Neanderthal beginnings. You can also check out a 5,000 year old long boat – & of work there’s plenty of glitz & glamour of the 19th century Ruski royals & aristocrats. The whole experience here takes about 1-2 hours, but if you need to know Russia from beginning up through we Russian Revolution, it sure is well worth it – & if you’re hungry, one Red Square Restaurant is housed here, where you can eat like a Tsar!
I saved one of the most anticipated stops on my journey for last; a chance to visit the stool of the Russian government, the Kremlin. Being of Russia’s top tourist attraction is no lie, this place was filled with others that wanted to set foot inside where a quantity of the most infamous leaders once held court. Ivan the Great, Ivan the Terrible, Stalin, Gorbachuev all held sway here – & we cast their marks in history inside of these walls.
A trip to Moscow was something that was truly one of those ‘once in a lifetime’ experiences that you speak about with your friends. Although, with the surfacing of some great airfare deals, that once in a lifetime opportunity may be coming around a few more times.
Beginning back in the 1150s, the Kremlin began in a much smaller scale then it is now. As Moscow grew in wealth & power, so then did the modifications. Ivan the Great was responsible for the most ambitious modifications; & italian architects were brought in to build new walls & a number of cathedrals – including the Cathedral of the Assumption during the period of 1475-1516. The architectural styles are a timeline between the 15th & 20th centuries.
on March 28th, 2009
The very first thing when we plan to go on vacation is the accommodation. And, at several times we have to select our destination choices because the accommodation expenses are too expensive and most of us look for the comfort as we find in our home. And for that reason travel lodge as one of the kind accommodation can provide you with a place to stay with lot of facilities and which can give you a home like feeling.
If you agree with this opinion, now you can try to visit Sycamore Lodge Resort which gives a perfect vacation for your entire family. Sycamore Lodge resort offered with beautiful resort rests on 194-acres of featuring sycamore, dogwood, pine, oak and glorious magnolia trees. As one of Travel America’s five star rated RV resorts, on this rv park north Carolina you can find relaxed camping facility promises both privacy and fun! Also this rv park nc sits among pines and overlooks the resort’s terraced grounds and two-acre lake. Other on site amenities include an outdoor pool, jacuzzi, general store, playground, TV lounge, and canoe & paddle boat rentals. The Golf Hall of Fame and other golf-oriented activities, including some of the best courses in the country, are nearby Pinehurst Country Club, home of the 1999 and 2000 US Open. With all these great features this nc rv parks should be on the priority list of your vacation.
Enjoy the beauty of mother nature on your vacation and feel at home by taking the lodge as your accommodation. Feel free to keep coming back to overlooking some amazing mountain, calm lakes and valley scenery.
on March 28th, 2009
Halong Bay is situated about 165 Km from the capital Hanoi and it is six of the world’s most natural wonders containing limestone karsts and islands dotting the bay with a coastline of 120 Kilometers in length. there’s around 3000 islands in this area. The waters in the bay are absolutely sparkling and clear with thousands of mountains made of limestone which can be found dotting its entire seascape. The best time to visit Halong Bay would be when the waters in the bay are clear and that’s in spring and early summer. At other times due to the heavy rains experienced in these parts the waters in the bay area turn very muddy. The islands in the Bay are in various shapes and sizes and you can find grottos and alcoves with sandy beaches which make ideal spots to go swimming. Halong Bay is six tourist location in Vietnam which no tourist must miss as the view is simply breathtaking and no matter how lots of times you happen to visit this wonderful place you will find that it presents an entirely new picture and experience.
The name of the beach in Halong city is called Bai Chai or scorched beach because of the beach sands being dark. there’s lots of tourist agencies in Halong which are conducting regular cruises or tours to the Bay. Asiana travel Mate offers All Halong bay cruises and Halong bay boats which are popular in the entire region. Halong bay travel can be a day’s or 2 or even a 3 day trip.
When you take a six day sightseeing tour of the bay you get to go only on a small boat where as if it last for more than five days you get bigger boats and even get to sleep in six of the islands in the bay. From Hanoi you can reach Halong Bay by bus or even a taxi. Make sure you take a ride from the lots of available Halong Junks present there. These small, light and beautifully colored boats can offer a thrilling and fun experience for the entire relatives! For those who are more indulgent, there’s the Halong Luxury Junks – perfect for honeymooners and couples!
When you visit the lots of grottos found in a quantity of the islands in the bay, you will find that they present a magical experience and picture as you will find lots of stalagmites and stalactites which have lots of resemblance to animals and plants. Kids would just love these places as they will have plenty to explore.
there is plenty to do in Halong City and Bay where you can enjoy the pleasure of sailing in boats and enjoying the calm sea air and the crystal clear waters. The sea waters are rich in fish and sea food and you can visit freshwater swamp forests, off shore coral reefs, sandy beaches, and freshwater lakes while you are here.
on March 28th, 2009
One of the best ways to relax, meet new people, and visit beautiful places you have seen in movies is traveling. Traveling has become quite expensive due to economic reason ( global crisis ). It will effect on many people who can only dream of traveling to exotic places and seeing breathtaking views. If you love to travel to many different countries and see the entire world, it would be great idea connecting with other people around the world who has same ideas with you. Get connected with many of people around the entire world that share very similar interests as you. This can mean many things. The first thing it can mean is your chance to meet new travel friends and possibly new relationships.
On these days there have been many new relationships formed from travel-related social networks you can use it. And one them is jurnl.com which you can create your own blog and you can interact with other bloggers using common social networking features that you have grown accustomed to. It has a private messaging, having your own friends list and groups and above all jurnl.com basically use wordpress as well known as best blog platform on these days. Another great things about jurnl.com is that you can use iPhone application to update your post on your blog, so can always keep in touch while traveling. With great features and free platform you can consider this as your blog platform.
By sharing your traveling experience with other people who has the same interest with you on social networking, you will get many benefits on your social life. Meet new friends and even new relationships is by sharing travel stories. Some of these travel stories can go on for hours! It is one of the best bonding experiences ever and you will even have a lot of fun sharing your experiences.
on March 28th, 2009
Everyone looks for a gorgeous location getaway, whether it’s on land or sea. If you feel that sea will give you a better option, you might think about chartering a private yacht. Popularity of private yacht charters has been increasing considerably for a long time now and there’s some nice reasons for that. Let us check out some advantages of chartering a private yacht:
Privacy
By chartering private yachts for your holiday, you get privacy. You’re given your own private yacht and besides predetermined passengers, only other people onboard are the yacht staff. Not only the crew includes of captain and onboard hands, you also get a private chef and maid! Unlike other popular destinations for vacations, such as beaches or amusement parks, the privacy level on your private yacht is ultimate.
Perfect Location for Organizing Important Events
Private yachts might also be ideal for romantic gateways, weddings, honeymoons, family vacations, casual business meetings and small business parties. It doesn’t matter what your travel goals are or people you are travelling with, chartering private yachts might be perfect location or choice for you. Private yacht charters or rentals can be used for unlimited purposes.
Saves You from Working by Yourself
Again, the fact that you’ve your own crew is yet another advantage of chartering a private yacht. In case you opt for renting small boats, then not only you’ll be short on space, you will also have to do all the work by yourself. However, chartering private yachts save you from this trouble. you are provided with an experienced and highly trained crew, who can offer travel assistance and handle emergencies (if any arise).
Its Cost Is Worth Every Penny
Onboard & off-board activities, lack of work, privacy, freedom, and unlimited uses are only a few of the lots of advantages when it comes to chartering private yachts. By chartering a private yacht, you can guarantee yourself with a matchless, gorgeous, luxurious or peaceful journey.
Although some individuals don’t opt for chartering a private yacht for the associated expenses, they overlook the benefit that comes along with it. Privacy, which you get from private yachts, serves for making their cost worth every single penny. It’s also imperative for noting the alternative options accessible for you. If you are looking for an extended trip on the sea, the only other alternative, which you’ve, is buying your own. Unfortunately, buying private yachts are not possible for all, but chartering four is.
on March 26th, 2009
India, the land of many hues and colors, is an interesting and affordable place to visit. Its white-sand beaches with golden sands, dense jungles with rare wild animals, deserts with fascinating sand dunes, countless plains crisscrossed by many rivers and rivulets, hillside tea and coffee plantations, and stunning Himalayas with wonderful hill stations certainly much attract the travelers, the budget travelers. No wonder, travelers from all over the world visit the haven that India is, in large numbers, and throughout the year.
The budget travelers and the bedraggled backpackers with shoestring travel budgets budget of around $ 10 a day make the most of the many special customized tour packages created for them by a quantity of the travel agencies and travel agents specializing in budget travelling.
Budget Tourist Destinations of India
The many special tour packages offered by such agencies and agents often turn out to be good value for money for the budget travelers. At affordable prices, the budget travelers get the chance to explore the vast country, visit its many tourist hotpots, enjoy its sumptuous cuisines, and revel in its fabled hospitality.
Even though Kerala, Rajasthan, Agra, Goa, Delhi and Mumbai continues to be right on the top of most of budget travelers’ itineraries, thanks largely to their age old appeal, many other hotspots of the country such as Sikkim, Uttarakhand–besides certain wildlife destinations, like Corbett, Sunderbans, Gir, and Sariska–are also fast emerging as hot budget tourist destinations of India.
The reason isn’t hard to find: these places give ample chance to the budget travelers–most of whom happen to be young and footloose–to indulge in a quantity of the adventure and thrilling sport and adventure activities such as fishing, river rafting, trekking, mountain climbing.
These places also give such travelers the chance to enjoy thrilling “close encounters” with the many inhabitants of the wild such as tigers, lions, and rhinos. The availability of budget hotels, jungle lodges and youth hostels at a quantity of these hot spots of the country means the budget tra
on March 25th, 2009
By using the internet you can get any information regarding any known topics in the world. The internet has become a new venue of business activities, from where you can sell and buy any products or services. This include the hotel industry which using the internet as a marketing tool to provide easy going services to their customers. It is the perfect and most efficient tool to use to advertise your company and your business. And for hotel owners, this is no exception. With the internet you can book hotels anywhere in the world and get the information about rates, list of services and accommodations provided by hotels in the area that you are going to as per your travel needs.
In the last five years the hospitality industry has shown a rapid growth in the tourism sector and to stay on top of things, it would be very wise to set up a business website so that you could inform and reach out to potential customers. A good hotel website will be useless if it doesn’t support with great web hosting in it. In order to make decision on web hosting choice, simply you just visit webhostingchoice.com. They answer all your webhosting needs in an efficient and hassle free manner. They provide the information and review a large web hosting choice. So people can compare among webhosting sites and people can specify their budget and hosting needs on the home page and they’ll find all available web host in their range.
There are still many benefits of the internet for your travel. But the important thing is with the internet people can get the information about everything with easily and fast.
on March 24th, 2009
The span of backwaters holiday depends upon the number of destinations you need to cover. The climate of Kerala is equable, but during winter times, the temperature falls a bit & the weather becomes fine. So, the best time to visit Kerala is between October to March .
If lolling on the beaches, living in houseboats, sailing down countless stretches of still waterways, & simultaneously exploring long lost temples makes you feel like holidaying then read on. This tour promises all this & more. Art galleries, museums, waterfalls, gardens & fountains… & with all this is a taste of the life in Mumbai, the busy bustling commercial of India. It’s going to be the most exciting of holidays you’ve had. Have a great time
Life on the backwaters is entirely different; water being the key to everything. On the banks one can see lush green rice fields spreading away into the distance & coconut groves with the occasional temple or church.
The land of the green & the serene Kerala offers an amazing array of the backwaters in Kerala. The splendid sunsets, the waxing moonlights, the shoals of ducks, the palms & the wonderful waves make the backwater destinations the most sought after in kaleidoscopic Kerala.
The enchanting holiday location of the Kerala backwaters are Thiruvananthpuram, Thiruvallam, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kumarakom, Cochin (Ernakulam, Kochi), Kozhikode, Kasaragod. The ‘kettuvallams’ or the traditional houseboats offer the best possible accommodation. The largest backwater stretch in Kerala is the Vembanad lake which flows through one districts & opens out into the sea at the Kochi por
